Innovation Asset Blog

Boeing patent application reveals new ambitions

The Boeing 747 marked a quantum leap forward for the aviation industry, representing the gold standard in wide-body, high-capacity commercial airliners for decades. That reputation came into question following the introduction of a legitimate rival in 2005 with the double-decker Airbus A380. But if it's latest patent application is any indication, it looks like Boeing is ready to face the competition head on with the next iteration of its 747 model.

According to DVice, the current 747-8 edition was designed with a longer fuselage than its predecessor, allowing for 50 additional passengers. However, that capacity still falls 250 passengers short of the Airbus A380.

The new patent application has now confirmed what many have suspected, according to the news outlet, illustrating Boeing's ambitions for its first double-decker model. The drawings suggest that Boeing will abandon its four-engine approach and equip its massive new aircraft with two larger engines in an effort to improve efficiency.

Although there is always some level of skepticism surrounding whether or not such ambitious patents will eventually come to fruition, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, there is optimism to be taken from Boeing's intricate and original take on its potential Airbus competitor.